Farewell to a Visionary Leader: UGC Bids Goodbye to Chairman Prof. M. Jagadesh Kumar

 

Farewell to a Visionary Leader: UGC Bids Goodbye to Chairman Prof. M. Jagadesh Kumar

New Delhi:
The University Grants Commission (UGC) has officially bid a heartfelt farewell to its esteemed Chairman, Prof. M. Jagadesh Kumar, marking the end of a transformative era in higher education governance in India. A farewell event was held in his honor, recognizing his invaluable contributions and visionary leadership.

A Tenure Defined by Reform and Innovation

Prof. Kumar's tenure as UGC Chairman was characterized by student-centric reforms and structural changes aimed at modernizing and streamlining India's higher education framework. Under his leadership, the Commission undertook bold initiatives focused on transparency, accountability, and the enhancement of academic standards.

He played a pivotal role in shaping and implementing the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, promoting multidisciplinary learning, research integration, and digital transformation across universities and colleges. His efforts led to the development of several initiatives, including the Academic Bank of Credits (ABC), guidelines for multiple entry and exit points in degree programs, and the formulation of frameworks to ensure quality and equity in education.

Connecting with the Academic Community

Prof. Kumar was not only a policymaker but also a mentor to many. His approachable demeanor and ability to connect with faculty, administrators, and students alike earned him widespread respect. Throughout his term, he maintained open communication with stakeholders across the country, ensuring that voices from all sectors of the academic community were heard and valued.

Strengthening Institutional Structures

He also focused on strengthening the institutional infrastructure of UGC, digitizing processes and introducing mechanisms that improved efficiency in administration and coordination. These changes made the Commission more adaptive to the dynamic needs of Indian higher education.

A Heartfelt Send-Off

In a touching farewell ceremony, Prof. Kumar was lauded for his integrity, dedication, and unwavering commitment to academic excellence. A collage of photographs shared by the UGC—shaped as a heart—captured the many moments of camaraderie and collaboration with colleagues, students, and other education leaders.

Looking Ahead

As he embarks on the next chapter of his professional journey, the entire UGC family extended its best wishes to Prof. Kumar. His legacy will continue to inspire reforms and innovation in the academic ecosystem for years to come.

UGC’s Message

“The University Grants Commission bids a heartfelt farewell to Chairman Prof. M. Jagadesh Kumar. His tenure was marked by a series of unprecedented student-centric reforms and far-reaching institutional changes. His dedication to academia and his ability to connect with people from all walks of life will be fondly remembered.”